Michigan State is set to host Ohio State this Sunday at 1 p.m. at the Breslin Center in a high-stakes Big Ten matchup. The game will be broadcast live on CBS and the Spartan Sports Network, including WJIM 1240-AM and WMMQ 94.9-FM. Michigan State (MSU) enters the game with an impressive record of 21-5 overall and 11-4 in conference play, ranked No. 15 by both the Associated Press and USA TODAY Coaches poll. They currently sit at No. 12 in the NET rankings and No. 10 by Kenpom.com analytics. In contrast, Ohio State comes in with a record of 17-9 and 9-6 in the Big Ten, unranked in the major polls, and positioned at No. 38 in NET rankings.
Betting lines favor the Spartans by 10.5 points, a testament to their strong home court advantage coupled with an effective season under legendary coach Tom Izzo, who boasts an impressive 758-307 record. For Ohio State, third-year coach Jake Diebler has led his team to a respectable 42-27 record.
Historically, MSU holds the upper hand in their rivalry with Ohio State, leading 76-61 all-time, including a victory in their only matchup last season, which ended 69-62 in favor of the Spartans.
In terms of projected lineups, Michigan State features talents such as point guard Jeremy Fears Jr. leading the nation in assists at 9.2 per game, alongside key players like Carson Cooper and Jaxon Kohler. Ohio State counters with senior guard Bruce Thornton, who has been pivotal in their recent victories, such as their notable win against Wisconsin where they triumphed 86-69. Thornton’s performance will be crucial, especially in light of the absence of sophomore John Mobley, who is currently sidelined with a hand injury.
The loss of Mobley will undoubtedly impact Ohio State’s offensive dynamics. However, Thornton’s ability to score and create plays remains a significant threat as the Buckeyes look to challenge the Spartans. The matchup promises to be an intriguing battle as both teams seek to secure crucial wins for NCAA tournament seeding.
With the stakes high, Michigan State aims to build momentum toward a potential 3 seed in the NCAA tournament, while Ohio State looks to bolster their fading hopes of returning to the Big Dance. Anticipation is building for this matchup, where MSU’s strong home performance against a reeling Ohio State team will be put to the test. The prediction leans toward a Spartan victory, with a projected score of MSU 77, Ohio State 67.